As a fashion editor, the turn of the season can be a tricky time for our wardrobes. There's the transitional stage where we straddle both seasons in a way that feels chaotic, then there's the stage where we're fully in it, inundated with new trends that make our wardrobes feel flat while we try to gauge if triangle scarves are still cool.
The key to avoiding all of this is thinking ahead. While it may give you a hot flush to think about autumn dressing in the middle of a heatwave, now is the best time to take stock of not just our wardrobes and the pieces we've carried over from last season into summer, but of the trends emerging now that set the tone for autumn.
By identifying the trends that are already gaining momentum rather than waiting until September and overhauling your wardrobe in a panic, you can make the transition feel seamless and your outfits feel more considered. From long-sleeve t-shirts and barrel-leg jeans to suede shoes and capri pants, there's a whole host of items that make up a great perennial wardrobe that can be re-styled for autumn to feel fresh and modern.
This method also allows you to look at microtrends with a new perspective, having already created a strong foundation for your autumn wardrobe where you can select what compliments rather than relying on them to do the heavy lifting.
So to give you a head start I've pulled together five early-autumn outfits I've spotted amongst the fashion set that are both transitional, versatile and, most importantly, stylish. Read on to find out more.
5 Early-Autumn Outfit Ideas
1. Long Sleeve T-Shirt + Satin Skirt + Suede Mules
Style Notes: I have such strong feelings about long-sleeve t-shirts. They've become much more than a basic thanks to The Row's summer 2025 collection where short sleeve tees were layered over long-sleeves for a quiet luxury take on 90s grunge (my happy place). The trend gained traction at the end of last summer and took us into winter but by no means are we done with it. It's maximum impact with minimum effort, and the long-sleeve tee options are endless. There's striped, slogan, raglan, oversized, fitted etc etc. Plus, the quiet luxury element means it pairs well with smarter, more feminine pieces like satin skirts and tailored trousers.
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A hard-working basic.
Available in seven other colours.
Take butter yellow into your autumn wardrobe.
The perfect transitional shoe.
Black raffia has all the texture but also works with the smarter pieces in your wardrobe.
2. Quilted Jacket + Barrel-Leg Jeans + Loafers
Style Notes: An alternative to trench and biker jackets, the quilted jacket is a great transitional piece that's super easy to style. Lean bohemian with embroidery details or opt for a more preppy look with barn jacket styles. Simply throw over a plain white tee and add slouchy jeans for a cool off-duty look.
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Designer look, high-street price.
Made from premium organic cotton.
A worthy investment.
The minimalists loafer.
A timeless classic.
3. Polka Dot Dress + Leather Trench + Leather Mules
Style Notes: This is such an effortless way to take a summer staple and adapt it for cooler weather. Polka dot dresses have been everywhere this season, and the right kind of outerwear means you don't have to pack it away with your other summer pieces. A leather trench is complimentary in both texture and length, contrasting with the satin and elongating your frame.
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Autumn occasionwear covered.
A investment piece that will serve you for years to come.
Square toes will always be chic.
A quiet statement.
The pouch bag will be huge for autumn.
4. Half-Zip Fleece + Oversized Shirt + Sweatpants
Style Notes: Add a shirt to your favourite sweatshirt and jogger combo and you have a cool and comfy take on athleisure. Keep it tonal like @chey_maya or use the shirt to add a contrasting colour like red or butter yellow. Metallic ballet flats or sleek pair of trainers work with the shirt to keep the look grounded in daywear rather than loungewear.
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Size up for a slouchy fit.
Add jeans for a chic post-gym look.
A smart take on comfy.
The marmite of shoes, and I love them!
Chunky hoops with a twist.
5. Crop Trench + Capri Pants + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: This season, the capri pants trend has been all about keeping the look as sleek as possible with tight-fitting tank tops and blouses, but for autumn don't be afraid to embrace volume up top. A smart, boxy crop trench is a chic tailored take on the trend that is so easy to copy. Keep accessories minimal and pared-back, like a delicate kitten heel and a cute rain hat on bad weather days.
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Love the subtle neck scarf detail.
A brand loved by fashion girls.
A go-with-everything pair.
Stay dry. Look cool.